Class has limited seating. Registration is accepted on a first come first serve basis.

EVENT PLANNING

Do you enjoy planning events? Do you want to start your own event planning business? If so, this accelerated certificate program is for you. The Certificate Program in Event Planning is designed for Small Business Owners and Independent Meeting Professionals. Those most interested in our program are new and aspiring event professionals, those interested in a career change, and those seeking credentials to launch and develop their business.

Event Planning is a multi-billion dollar industry. During a recession, companies are outsourcing Event Planners and expecting a higher return on investment. They recognize the need for highly skilled professionals who are detailed and result oriented.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for Event Planners will continue to grow at a faster than average rate through 2014. As the business world becomes even more globally focused, international meetings, luncheons, dinners, and social events become more commonplace.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE

--How to determine the amount of time/budget you need to prepare for an event

--How to create and develop sponsorship packages and demand results

--How to negotiate the best possible vendor fees to maximize your profits

--How to provide a consultation and write a win-win contract

--The essentials of financial management and marketing

The absolutely most important thing to do first when you're put in charge

The 6 essential elements of any meeting, and how to prepare for each

Where you should hold the event and when a hotel is a better choice

The basic questions every event planner must be able to answer

The most important consideration for setting up a registration desk

What type of food you should serve, how much, and when

Essentials to test at the hotel or meeting facility before booking

How top planners decide how many staff members to have on hand

WORKSHOP OUTLINE

The First Steps: Initial Planning & Budgets

Event Planner Income

Event Planner Contracts

Booking Speakers & Entertainment

Location, Location, Location

Catering & Menu Planning

Staffing & Volunteers

The Guest List

Invitations

Themes & Programs

Weather Considerations

Transportation

Business Basics and more

Participants who successfully complete the program will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement in Event Planning. Participants must attend both class meetings to receive a certificate. The certification is renewable every 2 years with 32 approved professional hours each calendar year.

PROGRAM FEE

The program fee is $295. This fee includes workbook, supporting materials, and certification. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

New and aspiring event planners and those seeking a career change will benefit from this profitable educational experience. Professional association planners, meeting planners, festival organizers, fundraisers, administrative assistants, stay at home entrepreneurs, party planners, and special event coordinators, just to name a few, are the target audience for this comprehensive course.

WHAT POSITIONS MIGHT THIS CERTIFICATE LEAD TO?

Meeting Coordinator

Event Coordinator

Small Business Owner

Wedding Planner

Training Coordinator

Marketing Assistant

Independent Meeting Planner

Executive Assistant

Administrative Assistant

Sales Manager

ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM?

No prerequisites are required for the certificate. Some experience in event planning is helpful, but not necessary. Once you earn your certificate, Event Planners must maintain 32 hours of professional event planning experience each calendar year every 2 years.

CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded upon the completion of the 2 day consecutive program which includes four core courses; it cannot be separated. Those who do not wish to pursue a certification may take individual classes.

CREDIT

A permanent record of attendance is established and students may obtain a letter of reference.

What Participants Are Saying About Our Event Planning Instruction:

Helena, Thank you for such a productive afternoon. We are really fired up and have been working on ideas since we got home this afternoon. With the help of my husband we were able to come up with a name for our business. I feel as though we are headed in the right direction and have a strong leg to stand on after our class today. Thank you, Lori

Hey Helena! I wanted to thank you and let you know how much I enjoyed the class yesterday. You have such a great spirit and we could tell that you truly care about our success. We are very motivated and will be meeting with several vendors this week. We are trying to meet with as many vendors as possible over the next few weeks. We need a portfolio ASAP! Thanks again, Kristin

Helena, It was a pleasure meeting you today, and I really enjoyed the training. You are an inspiration, and I wish you continued success in your business. Thank you again for all you have taught today. Best regards, Ginni